Why Is My Dog All of a Sudden Chewing Things?

Teething or Dental Discomfort

One of the most common reasons dogs suddenly start chewing excessively is because of teething or dental discomfort.

Puppies naturally chew a lot as their baby teeth fall out and their adult teeth grow in.

However, even adult dogs can chew more if they are experiencing dental pain, gum inflammation, or tooth problems.

When a dog has sore gums or dental issues, chewing provides relief by massaging the gums or distracting from the discomfort.

This sudden chewing could be your dog’s way of coping with oral pain.

Signs that chewing is due to dental discomfort include:

• Excessive drooling

• Pawing at the mouth or face

• Bad breath

• Difficulty eating or reluctance to eat hard food

• Red or swollen gums

If you suspect dental problems, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for a dental checkup.

Untreated dental issues can lead to infection and more serious health problems.

Related: Why is my dog all of a sudden peeing in the house? (Here’s why)

Anxiety or Stress

Stress and anxiety are major contributors to sudden chewing in dogs.

Just like people, dogs respond to stressful situations by changing their behavior, and chewing can be a coping mechanism.

Dogs may chew furniture, shoes, or other household items to relieve stress or calm themselves.

Common causes of anxiety in dogs include:

• Separation anxiety when left alone

• Changes in the household, such as a new baby or pet

• Loud noises, like thunderstorms or fireworks

• Moving to a new home

• Visits to the vet or groomer

If your dog is chewing due to anxiety, you may also notice other signs such as pacing, whining, excessive barking, or destructive behavior.

Providing safe chew toys, increasing exercise, and maintaining a calm environment can help reduce stress-related chewing.

In severe cases, professional training or veterinary advice may be needed.

Boredom and Lack of Mental Stimulation

Dogs are intelligent and energetic animals that require mental and physical stimulation daily.

If your dog suddenly starts chewing things, it may be a sign of boredom.

Chewing is a natural outlet for their energy, and without enough engagement, they may turn to your belongings as a way to entertain themselves.

Dogs left alone for long periods or with limited toys and activities often develop destructive chewing habits.

To prevent boredom-related chewing:

• Provide a variety of chew toys and rotate them regularly

• Give your dog plenty of exercise through walks, play, and training

• Use puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to keep their mind active

• Spend quality time interacting with your dog daily

Increasing mental stimulation and physical activity can drastically reduce sudden chewing behavior caused by boredom.

Changes in Routine or Environment

Dogs are creatures of habit, and any sudden change in their environment or routine can trigger new behaviors like chewing.

This could be a move to a new home, a change in work schedule, a new family member, or even a new pet in the house.

When dogs feel uncertain or insecure because of these changes, they may resort to chewing as a way to self-soothe or mark their territory.

Watch for other signs of adjustment stress such as:

• Changes in appetite

• Withdrawal or clinginess

• Excessive barking or whining

Gradually helping your dog adjust to changes and providing consistent routines can help minimize chewing caused by environmental shifts.

Medical Problems

Sometimes, sudden chewing can be a sign of underlying medical issues.

Dogs that experience gastrointestinal upset or nausea may chew on things as a way to alleviate discomfort or induce vomiting.

Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as allergies or skin irritations, can cause dogs to chew excessively at themselves or household items nearby.

If your dog’s sudden chewing is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Related: Why is my dog all of a sudden eating grass? (Here’s why)

Nutritional Deficiencies or Hunger

Dogs that are hungry or suffering from nutritional deficiencies may start chewing to satisfy their needs.

For example, dogs with mineral deficiencies might chew on unusual objects in an attempt to get nutrients.

Similarly, if a dog is not being fed enough or frequently enough, they might turn to chewing to relieve hunger pangs or boredom.

Ensuring your dog has a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs and feeding them appropriate portions and schedules can help reduce sudden chewing behavior related to hunger.

Behavioral Disorders or Attention-Seeking Behavior

Some dogs chew suddenly as a way to seek attention. If chewing leads to you reacting — even negatively — your dog may learn that this behavior gets a response and continue doing it.

Additionally, some dogs develop compulsive chewing behaviors due to underlying behavioral disorders.

These compulsive behaviors can be difficult to stop without professional help.

If you suspect your dog’s chewing is attention-driven or compulsive, it’s a good idea to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for guidance.

Curiosity and Exploration 

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so sudden chewing is a natural part of their development.

This behavior helps puppies learn about their environment and relieve teething discomfort.

Even adult dogs may chew new or interesting items out of curiosity.

For example, if you brought new furniture or items into the house, your dog might investigate them by chewing.

Providing safe and appropriate chew toys can help redirect this natural chewing behavior away from household items.

What To Do When Your Dog Suddenly Starts Chewing Things

Understanding why your dog is suddenly chewing is the first step to managing the behavior effectively.

Here are some practical steps you can take:

1. Identify the Cause

Observe your dog’s environment, routine, diet, and health to identify potential causes of sudden chewing.

Note any recent changes that could be triggers.

2. Provide Appropriate Chew Toys

Give your dog plenty of chew toys that are safe and suitable for their size and chewing style.

Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest.

3. Increase Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Make sure your dog is getting enough physical activity and mental challenges through walks, playtime, and training.

4. Manage Stress and Anxiety

Create a calm environment and use calming aids if needed.

Consult with your vet or a behaviorist if anxiety seems severe.

5. Avoid Punishment

Punishing your dog for chewing can increase stress and worsen the behavior.

Instead, use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior.

6. Secure Household Items

Keep shoes, clothes, and other tempting items out of reach to prevent unwanted chewing.

7. Monitor Your Dog’s Health

If chewing is accompanied by other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, seek veterinary care promptly.

When to Seek Veterinary or Professional Help

If your dog’s sudden chewing is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying signs, it’s important to get professional help.

Consider contacting a veterinarian if:

• Chewing is accompanied by signs of pain or discomfort

• Your dog is chewing on harmful objects such as electrical cords or toxic plants

• There are signs of anxiety or behavioral issues that you cannot manage

• Your dog shows signs of illness such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy

• You suspect dental or health problems

A veterinarian can rule out medical causes and provide treatment if needed.

A professional trainer or behaviorist can help manage anxiety, compulsive behaviors, and attention-seeking chewing.

Key Takeaway

Sudden chewing in dogs can stem from a variety of causes including teething, stress, boredom, changes in environment, medical issues, or nutritional needs.

Understanding the root cause is essential to effectively managing this behavior.

By providing your dog with appropriate chew toys, plenty of exercise, and mental stimulation, while monitoring their health and emotional wellbeing, you can reduce or eliminate unwanted chewing.

If you notice your dog suddenly chewing things along with other concerning symptoms, or if the behavior becomes destructive or dangerous, seek advice from your veterinarian or a professional trainer.

With patience and the right approach, you can help your dog return to healthy chewing habits and maintain a happy, stress-free home for both of you.